I Was Really Bummed Out That I Didn’t Bump In to Nicholas Cage While Visiting Boston’s Historic District

On Friday, July 13th, John and I buckled our seatbelts, ordered extra-large java chip frappucinos and began our adventure to Boston, Massachusetts. We had visited the Bay State about two years ago during an impromptu visit to wicked Salem but had remained steadfast in our eagerness to visit the “wicked smaht” city of Boston.

Having grown up near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, history is in my veins. I remember my mother and I spending weekends in the City of Brotherly Love visiting gravesites, the United States Mint, and Betsy Ross’s house, soaking up all the lush history that my home away from home has to offer. Boston, for me, is a city that holds just as much significance – if not more. Our first stop was to visit the Old North Church in Boston’s Historic District.

This historic landmark isn’t where I’d expected it to be, nestled behind curving streets and tight pathways, with apartments stacked on top of one another. I found it to be quite interesting how much the city of Boston was built up to include its history. That’s what standing in front of the Old North Church reminded me. That – and the final scene in National Treasure when Nicholas Cage tricks Sean Bean into traveling to Boston for the treasure.

Old North Church

Inside the church, though, is when you really get lost in time. I felt like my middle-school textbooks had come alive and I wasn’t just reading about Paul Revere – but was standing as a part of its’ story. The most interesting thing about the pews inside the church was how high they were, not making it too easy to see those around you.

Old North Church is surrounded by other areas of historical value that I wasn’t expecting. We had the opportunity to take photos next to the statue of Paul Revere, while also having the opportunity to tour his house.

Boston is Rich in History

Boston has a rich history, but you can actually feel it as you walk down their cobblestone streets, up hills and past graveyards. The architecture is unlike anything I’ve seen elsewhere – including Portland, who had beautifully made streets and bridges. Personally, I enjoyed how quaint the city was, with local eateries, winding roads, and apparently, the Italian section of Boston where we tasted the greatest pizza of all time at Rina’s Pizzeria and Cafe.

I will say that Boston, unsurprisingly so, is highly touristy so be prepared to wait for photo-ops around statues and large crowds. Unlike other cities I’ve visited though, Boston seems to embrace the tourism. They’re friendly, eager to meet those of us who have traveled from New Jersey, Georgia, or Utah, like the friends we met in the hot tub back at our hotel.

*Though now I’m ready to pack my bags for a night out in Salt Lake City*

While we were only in Boston for a short time, I felt fortunate to visit these iconic places that describe my history and this beautiful country of ours I’m proud to call home. It’s amazing to think about how different life would be had it not been for Paul Revere. These landmarks are affordable and something you should add to your bucket list. Even if you just do Boston for a day, like us, the memories of those winding walkways will stay with you forever.